Jonathan Davies buses off CJ Stander during Wales' Six Nations opener against Ireland on Sunday. Photo: David Rogers

Ireland raced into a 13-point lead on Sunday thanks to a try from Conor Murray, but Wales fought back through a try from Taulupe Faletau to trail by just three points at the break.

Two second-half penalties from Rhys Priestland edged Wales in front but a Jonny Sexton penalty six minutes from time ensured a draw for Ireland, who are looking to become the first team to win three successive Six Nations titles.

George North crashes through the Irish defence at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday. Photo: Stu Forster

Ireland went ahead on four minutes through a Sexton penalty after Wales were adjudged to be offside.

Sexton stretched the lead to six points eight minutes later with another penalty as Ireland took a firm hold on the game.

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Jamie Heaslip looked to have scored Ireland's first try on 25 minutes when he crossed the Welsh line amidst a pile of bodies but it went unrewarded as the video official was unable to see if he had grounded the ball.

The reprieve for Wales was shortlived, however, as Murray jinked over a minute later for the game's first try with Sexton adding the extras to move Ireland 13-0 in front.